Sermon

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS

1. What was one thing you found particularly interesting, insightful, helpful, or difficult to understand from this Sunday?
2. Read and discuss Genesis 3:1-7. What does it say? What does it mean? What should we do? How does it point us to Jesus? What warnings are here for us regarding temptation?
3. How does sin bring chaos and darkness? How does the gospel bring order and light?
4. What are the characteristics of temptation? How does temptation “demand to be heard?”
5. Read through and discuss the “Anatomy of Temptation” list below. How have you experienced or observed these things at work?
6. What tempts you? What specific scriptures deal with that temptation? How do you need to apply the word to that struggle?
7. “The enemy knows you better than you know yourself.” What is your response to this? What are the implications of this statement?
8. Read and discuss Romans 13:14. What is one area in your life where you are making provision for the flesh? How can your Shepherd Group support you in that struggle?
9. Spend some time in prayer for the things you’ve discussed. Thank God for His provision for us in Jesus, and ask for the grace to lean into the gospel when you are tempted.

THE ANATOMY OF TEMPTATION

• Temptation takes advantage of the moment.
• Temptation questions God’s Word.
• Temptation takes advantage of our ignorance of God’s Word.
• Temptation demands the right to be heard.
• Temptation does not always come boldly lest it scare off its victim.
• Temptation distorts the truth.
• Temptation contradicts God’s Word.
• Temptation minimizes sin’s consequences.
• Temptation denies the doctrine of judgment.
• Temptation says that God is holding back.
• Temptation plants doubt.
• Temptation wants its victim to bypass God’s wisdom.
• Temptation operates through the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.